ra. Backed by mass protests over inequality and the cost of living, the young leftist leader promised to overhaul the Pinochet-era constitution and deliver economic reform. But after repeated failures to replace the decades-old constitution, mounting public frustration and growing insecurity have reshaped Chile’s political mood — creating an opening for conservative forces to return to power. 🗳️ First Round Set for November 16 Chileans will vote on November 16 , with any candidate needing 50% of the vote to win outright. If no contender reaches that threshold, a second round will be held on December 14 . The parliamentary stakes are also high. All 155 seats in the Chamber of Deputies and 23 of 50 Senate seats are up for election. 📌 Mandatory Voting Returns For the first time since 2012, voting will be mandatory , which could significantly increase turnout. In the 2021 election, only 47% of eligible voters cast ballots, but participation under mandatory voting in recent referendums has exceeded 80% . Chile had 15.4 million registered voters in 2024. 👥 Main Candidates Jeannette Jara — The Left’s Hope Jeannette Jara, 51, is the candidate for Boric’s Unity for Chile coalition. A former labour minister, she led the push to cut the workweek from 45 to 40 hours. Her campaign focuses on: Increasing the minimum wage Expanding affordable housing A new public safety plan More police training Expanding prison capacity Her candidacy is historic: she is one of the most prominent Communist Party figures to gain broad support since Chile’s return to democracy. Jose Antonio Kast — Right-Wing Frontrunner On the right, Jose Antonio Kast , 59, of the Republican Party, leads a fractured conservative field. Kast — who lost to Boric in 2021 — is expected to perform strongly, especially in a runoff where right-wing votes would likely consolidate behind him. His platform includes: Hardline measures on crime and immigration Policies inspired by El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele A tough approach to border control and public security Because centre-right parties skipped a primary, several right-wing candidates will appear on the first-round ballot, but Kast remains the strongest contender among them. 🔍 What’s at Stake? This election could determine whether Chile continues Boric’s progressive vision or returns to a more conservative, security-focused leadership. Polls show: Rising voter concern over crime Growing frustration with the failed constitutional reform Strong momentum for conservative candidates in a potential runoff As Chile enters a pivotal election cycle, the balance between reform, stability and security will shape the country’s political future.